How much does camping cost at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground?

Camping fees at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground range from $2-$6/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. First-come, first-served basis only.

What is the best time to visit Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground?

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground is open June through October. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground?

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground?

Fire policies at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground: Campfire rings provided at sites; no specific fire restrictions mentioned.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground have?

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground has 18 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground?

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground?

Popular activities at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

3.82

17 reviews

Forest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR

Top 9% in ORFall

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

6,100 ft

Price

$2 - $6/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

18 campsites

Season

05/15 - 10/15; 10/16...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,100 ft

Price

$2 - $6/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

18 campsites

Season

05/15 - 10/15; 10/16...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

$2.00 - $6.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$6 per night for single units; $2 per night for extra vehicles.

Standard Site Fee$6.00

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Campground Map

Forest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Forest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR

Nearby places

Lakeview: 45 minutes northwest (21.7 miles)

Nearby supplies

Lakeview: 45 minutes northwest, supplies including groceries and fuel available.

Weather at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Current alert: Seasonal reduced services; potable water unavailable during off-season.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Fall delivers the best experience. Aspens turn gold from late September into early October, and daytime temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-60s. Mornings often dip near freezing, creating frosty starts that thin the crowds. Summer runs from mid-June through mid-October, but even July evenings cool off quickly at this elevation. Mosquitoes can be thick during warmer months. Winter arrives suddenly, and the campground closes mid-October.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 9% in OR

Fall noted as best: aspens turn gold late Sept–Oct; cool days and scenic colors.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June through October. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: 05/15 - 10/15; 10/16-05/14 Open with reduced services

About Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Cottonwood Recreation Area sits 45 minutes northwest of Lakeview in the Fremont-Winema National Forest at 6,100 feet. The campground has 18 sites (tent, RV, and primitive) spread around Cottonwood Meadows Lake, with fees ranging from $2 to $6 per night. Sites near the water fill first, but the Cougar Loop offers quieter spots back in the trees.

The Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground supports a range of camping options, including walk-in tent camping, combined sites for RVs and tents, and a dedicated horse camp area.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best experience. Aspens turn gold from late September into early October, and daytime temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-60s. Mornings often dip near freezing, creating frosty starts that thin the crowds. Summer runs from mid-June through mid-October, but even July evenings cool off quickly at this elevation. Mosquitoes can be thick during warmer months. Winter arrives suddenly, and the campground closes mid-October.

ElevationAt 6,100 feet above sea level, Cottonwood Recreation Area offers that perfect high-country experience where the air is crisp, the stars seem close enough to touch, and afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with dramatic flair. This elevation creates a refreshing escape from summer heat, though wise campers pack layers for those cool mountain evenings when temperatures can dip surprisingly low.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits in a transition zone where Great Basin aridity meets Cascade moisture, creating an unusually diverse forest. Ponderosa pines grow from volcanic soil, white firs cluster in protected draws, and aspens mark year-round water sources. Cottonwood Meadows Lake reflects the surrounding forest and sky. The elevation and mix of ecosystems support deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species. Sites are well-separated, with aspens and conifers providing natural screening between neighbors.

Geological RegionTucked into the southeast corner of the magnificent Fremont-Winema National Forest, Cottonwood showcases the diverse ecology of Oregon's high country. This remarkable landscape tells the story of volcanic origins and glacial sculpting, where Ponderosa pines stretch skyward from volcanic soils, White firs cluster in protected draws, and ancient Aspens mark the presence of year-round water sources. The forest here represents a unique transition zone where the arid Great Basin meets the moisture-loving Cascade species, creating an unusually rich tapestry of plant and animal life.

Scenic ViewsLakefront sites provide views of Cottonwood Meadows Lake; Cougar Loop offers forested scenery without direct lake access.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

No official check-in time specified.

Check-out

No official check-out time specified.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Allowed guests per site not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSites loop around Cottonwood Meadows Lake. The Cougar Loop sits back in the forested area, separated from the main lakeside sites.

Reservation PlatformsNot reservable online or via phone; first-come-first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis only.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservations; cancellation details not applicable.

AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available, and the campground sites are generally described as clean and accessible for individuals with mobility limitations.

Site SizeThe campground offers a mix of sites, including standard campsites close to the lake and more secluded sites in Cougar Loop away from the water.

PrivacySites are described as well-separated, offering solitude and privacy to campers.

Total Campsites18 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose lakefront sites for proximity to Cottonwood Meadows Lake; sites in Cougar Loop offer more solitude.

Best CampsitesLakefront sites are popular for boat access and lake views. Cougar Loop offers more secluded sites away from the water, trading shoreline convenience for privacy and quiet.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides access to numerous recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Cottonwood Meadows Lake serves as the primary attraction for water activities such as fishing and boating, while hiking trails nearby offer additional exploration opportunities.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bear sightings reported; caution for mosquitoes, especially in forested areas.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at the campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfire rings provided at sites; no specific fire restrictions mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No quiet hours specified.

Emergency ServicesLakeview Emergency Services: approximately 45 minutes away

Trash & RecyclingThis is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out facility, requiring campers to manage their own waste and recycling.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Cottonwood Meadows Lake, which permits non-motorized and electric boats. Two day-use areas and a boat launch available.

Camp HostSeasonal camp host available (specific contact information not provided).

Cell CoverageUser review indicates good reception with US Cellular, but official confirmation and coverage details are unavailable.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.8

17 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, scenic lake views, and well-separated campsites. Some reviewers noted occasional cold weather and mosquito problems.

Review Summaries

Based on 17 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently praise the campground for its clean facilities, scenic surroundings, and accessibility. The lake and hiking trails are frequently mentioned as standout features. Reviews also note...

Based on 17 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitoes were reported as an issue during some stays. Cold temperatures were noted by one reviewer, who described the lodge as being as cold inside as it was outside. Limited amenities, such as no...

Based on 17 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Cougar Loop is noted for being away from the water and offering solitude, while lakeside campsites provide direct access to Cottonwood Meadows Lake.

Based on 17 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend being prepared for cold weather due to the elevation of 6,100 feet and packing bug spray to deal with mosquitoes. One user specifically advised keeping food secure to avoid attracting...

Based on 17 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate the campground is most enjoyable during the summer and early fall when temperatures are warmer and the lake is accessible for boating and fishing. During colder months, users noted...

Based on 17 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'A very nice place. Road is paved all the way in to where it branches between the picnic areas and campgrounds.' (Ken Barber) 2. 'Always clean and always peaceful.' (Matthew Goeres) 3. 'Mosquitoes...

Based on 17 reviews

Accessibility Features

Camping sites near the main campground are wheelchair accessible, and vault toilets are noted to be clean and suitable for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 17 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but users are advised to secure food to avoid attracting wildlife.

Based on 17 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Anglers, paddlers, and anyone chasing quiet on a budget: stocked rainbow and Redband trout, a boat ramp for non-motorized craft, and lakeside sites for $6/night. Come September or early October for the aspen color and frost-cleared mornings.

Skip if

No hookups, no flush toilets, no showers, and no reservations mean this won't work if any of those are non-negotiable. Summer months bring real mosquito pressure, and the 45-minute drive from Lakeview makes supply runs a half-day affair.

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Campgrounds

Fremont-Winema National Forest

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

The Cottonwood Recreation Area, located 45 minutes northwest of Lakeview, Oregon, is one of the busiest campgrounds in the southeast zone of the Fremont-Winema National Forest. Western white pine, white fir offer shade and aspens turn sunny gold every autumn. Abundant deer and even black bear can be sighted strolling through the campground. It’s essential to pack all food away in vehicles or hang it high.This campground features 22 campsite, six vault toilets, potable water, and a seasonal camp host. Each campgrounds has a picnic table and campfire ring.Additionally, there are four walk-in, tent only sites and one horse camp site. The horse camp includes its own corral and water area as well as a trailer turn-around. This high-elevation camp is generally free of snow mid-June through mid-October.Cotton Meadows Lake, stocked with rainbow and Brook trout, offers excellent fishing. There are two day use areas and a boat launch on the lake. Only non-motorized and electric boat motors are allowed. Other recreation opportunities include hiking and exploring.

About the campground

The elevation is 6,100 ft. NOTE: The authors did not personally survey this campground. Information was provided by the Lakeview Ranger District Office. This pack-it-in/pack-it-out campground circles around Cottonwood Meadows Lake with campsites hugging the shoreline. It is possible to moor a boat or canoe at these campsites. A small loop, nicknamed Cougar Loop because Cougar Creek flows through it, is away from the water and none of the sites have direct access to Cottonwood Meadows Lake. Ponderosa pine, White fir, and mature Aspen provide shade and give the campground its pleasant character. Perhaps the best feature of this campground is the solitude it offers campers. This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

Seasons & access

Open June 1 through October 15 - weather dependent

Facilities

Cottonwood Meadows Lake is 10 acres; powerboats limited to electric motors Hiking: Cottonwood Meadows Lake trail (foot, horse, mountain bike) - 2 miles Cottonwood trail (foot, horse, mountain bike) - 4 miles Fishing: Native Redband and Brook trout

Water activities

Cottonwood Meadows Lake is 10 acres; powerboats limited to electric motors

RV information

The parking aprons are gravel. A grey water dump is available.

Directions

From Lakeview, OR, take State Rt. 140 west 21.7 miles to Cottonwood Meadows sign. Turn right onto Forest Rt. 3870 and go 5.8 miles into campground.

National Forest: Fremont National Forest
Ranger District: Lakeview
Elevation: 6100
Rate: $6 per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: 05/15 – 10/15; 10/16-05/14 Open with reduced services